Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Bridal Gown Bustles....What types are there?
Ah, the wedding gown.
One of the most expensive, beautiful, and criticized pieces of finery we'll every wear. At best, its life is short and worn in full for at most 6-8 hours; in that time it will be cried on, admired, danced in, hugged, and otherwise well loved. The train will drag on the floor for the pre-ceremony events and through to the time when the new husband and wife are introduced to the reception; and the bride will quickly realize the her precious gown is being stepped on, getting dirty, and making it hard for her to get around.
This is where the bustle comes in! The gown will spend more of its short life being bustled up, so it's important that the bustle is not only functional but appropriate for the style and fabric of the gown itself. The bustle is an opportunity for a bride to make another fashion statement, and can either enhance the look of the gown, completely change it, or just look like a pile of fabric getting the train off the floor.
When considering a bustle, start by deciding your alterations budget. Some bustles can be as inexpensive as $20.00, others may run $200 or more. The more intricate a bustle is, the more it will cost. Other cost factors include the length of the train, and the fabric being used. A cathedral train will prove more difficult to bustle securly, as will delicate fabrics such as lace or silk organza that can tear easily.
Create an inspiration board with several bustles that catch your eye, and make sure to show it to your seamstress at your first gown fitting. She will use pins to pull the train up for you as it would look with a particular bustle. Don't be afraid to ask for changes or to try something that you don't think you will like!
There are several types of bustles.
One-Point Overbustle
The most simple and inexpensive is the overbustle, usually secured by one point at the base of the bodice. This bustle is very full, and works well for brides on a budget with gowns created from lighter fabrics. The one-point overbustle is notorious for breaking during the reception, so it is not recommended for long trains or gowns made of heavy satin.
Three Point Over-Bustle
A three point overbustle is more secure than the one-point version, and also helps to spread the train so it stays open. This is a great option for gowns with heavier fabric, and also for the famous Alfred Angelo Dream in Color line.
The Ballroom Bustle
The ballroom bustle is a statement for girls who don't like the look of traditional bustles; if they are done well they make the gown look like there was no train at all. They are a great option for ball gowns with longer trains, and tend to be very secure. A ballroom bustle is an overbustle created by several points across the bottom of the bodice which spread the train out and create the look of a normal skirt.
(leanna.com)
One-Point Under Bustle
Under bustles work by ribbon ties placed inside the dress. The ties are completely hidden and tend to be more secure than over bustles.
The French Bustle
Like the under-bustle, the french bustle is created by a series of ribbons inside the gown. The train is lifted up and bridesmaids tie together ribbons that are either numbered or color coded to create this elegant, secure look. This is a great bustle for full gowns and gowns made with heavy or delicate fabrics. They can be placed low or high and have anywhere from 2 - 25 points in them.
(PW bride Meadocroft)
The Double and Triple French Bustle
Also known as 'whipped cream bustles', the double or triple french bustle is achieved much like the single french by a series of ties under the skirt.
(PW Bride GoingtobeGoff)
The Austrian Bustle
The Austrian bustle is gaining in popularity. It is a secure bustle created by the use of a loop and pull system similiar to that of a window shade. A string is pulled and it bunches the train up.
The Sash Gown Bustle
& other bustles for gowns with unique trains.
Creating further problems for brides is a gown with a large sash or other embellishments. Some brides choose to remove the sash, others tie it up into a loopy bow.
(PW Bride MountainBride)
There are so many other fun and unique ways to bustle your gown. Ask your seamstress about combining bustle types such as a french and an overbustle, or doing a multi point overbustle with lots of points on it. Remember that your gown will be bustled for a longer period of time than un-bustled, so make sure that it is not only a great fashion statement, but secure and comfortable to move in!
Happy Planning!
Bustle Pics from TheKnot.com, Google Images, other.... Content from projectwedding.com
One of the most expensive, beautiful, and criticized pieces of finery we'll every wear. At best, its life is short and worn in full for at most 6-8 hours; in that time it will be cried on, admired, danced in, hugged, and otherwise well loved. The train will drag on the floor for the pre-ceremony events and through to the time when the new husband and wife are introduced to the reception; and the bride will quickly realize the her precious gown is being stepped on, getting dirty, and making it hard for her to get around.
This is where the bustle comes in! The gown will spend more of its short life being bustled up, so it's important that the bustle is not only functional but appropriate for the style and fabric of the gown itself. The bustle is an opportunity for a bride to make another fashion statement, and can either enhance the look of the gown, completely change it, or just look like a pile of fabric getting the train off the floor.
When considering a bustle, start by deciding your alterations budget. Some bustles can be as inexpensive as $20.00, others may run $200 or more. The more intricate a bustle is, the more it will cost. Other cost factors include the length of the train, and the fabric being used. A cathedral train will prove more difficult to bustle securly, as will delicate fabrics such as lace or silk organza that can tear easily.
Create an inspiration board with several bustles that catch your eye, and make sure to show it to your seamstress at your first gown fitting. She will use pins to pull the train up for you as it would look with a particular bustle. Don't be afraid to ask for changes or to try something that you don't think you will like!
There are several types of bustles.
One-Point Overbustle
The most simple and inexpensive is the overbustle, usually secured by one point at the base of the bodice. This bustle is very full, and works well for brides on a budget with gowns created from lighter fabrics. The one-point overbustle is notorious for breaking during the reception, so it is not recommended for long trains or gowns made of heavy satin.
Three Point Over-Bustle
A three point overbustle is more secure than the one-point version, and also helps to spread the train so it stays open. This is a great option for gowns with heavier fabric, and also for the famous Alfred Angelo Dream in Color line.
The Ballroom Bustle
The ballroom bustle is a statement for girls who don't like the look of traditional bustles; if they are done well they make the gown look like there was no train at all. They are a great option for ball gowns with longer trains, and tend to be very secure. A ballroom bustle is an overbustle created by several points across the bottom of the bodice which spread the train out and create the look of a normal skirt.
(leanna.com)
One-Point Under Bustle
Under bustles work by ribbon ties placed inside the dress. The ties are completely hidden and tend to be more secure than over bustles.
The French Bustle
Like the under-bustle, the french bustle is created by a series of ribbons inside the gown. The train is lifted up and bridesmaids tie together ribbons that are either numbered or color coded to create this elegant, secure look. This is a great bustle for full gowns and gowns made with heavy or delicate fabrics. They can be placed low or high and have anywhere from 2 - 25 points in them.
(PW bride Meadocroft)
The Double and Triple French Bustle
Also known as 'whipped cream bustles', the double or triple french bustle is achieved much like the single french by a series of ties under the skirt.
(PW Bride GoingtobeGoff)
The Austrian Bustle
The Austrian bustle is gaining in popularity. It is a secure bustle created by the use of a loop and pull system similiar to that of a window shade. A string is pulled and it bunches the train up.
The Sash Gown Bustle
& other bustles for gowns with unique trains.
Creating further problems for brides is a gown with a large sash or other embellishments. Some brides choose to remove the sash, others tie it up into a loopy bow.
(PW Bride MountainBride)
There are so many other fun and unique ways to bustle your gown. Ask your seamstress about combining bustle types such as a french and an overbustle, or doing a multi point overbustle with lots of points on it. Remember that your gown will be bustled for a longer period of time than un-bustled, so make sure that it is not only a great fashion statement, but secure and comfortable to move in!
Happy Planning!
Bustle Pics from TheKnot.com, Google Images, other.... Content from projectwedding.com
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Choosing the right briddemaid dress.
Selecting your bridesmaids is a task that should be taken seriously, as you are going to choose your sisters or friends that are closest to you. As you are celebrating in this amazing day, you will want these ladies standing right beside you.
Who to ask? Of course, your sister(s) would be the first and obvious choice. From there you would look at your closest girlfriends that have been friends with you for a long time. Sometimes this can be a hard choice especially if your groom only has 4 ushers but you have 5 very close friends. Now adays, not all bridal parties are even on both sides due to this very reason. Don’t forget to look at your sister-in-law as well. If you have a friendship with her you may want to consider this option as well. The last thing you need is added family stress because you did not ask her.
One important thing to remember is not to feel any guilt. You can’t have everyone in your bridal party and people understand that. If there are a couple girls that you wanted to ask but did not have room for, give them other tasks that day to do for you. They will appreciate the fact that you trust them to help out.
The bridal party sets the tone for the night so you want to make sure everyone is on board and upbeat. They will spend from morning to night with you and your wedding album will be filled with their pictures. Enjoy this time with them as they become a part of your new life with a new husband.
Content from: Ijustsaidyes.com
Friday, August 5, 2011
Winter Weddings Can Save You Serious Money......
Maybe sunshine and warmth are overrated: When temperatures drop, so do prices. And when business is slow for vendors and venues, you may be able to cut a deal.
By SmartMoney
By SmartMoney
The promise of warm weather, blossoming flowers and robust attendance makes summer the peak season for weddings. But there are different perks for couples who marry in the winter -- namely huge savings.
Peak wedding season falls between May and October in most of the U.S., says Richard Markel, the president of the Association for Wedding Professionals International. During that time, most wedding vendors -- including caterers, photographers and limousine companies -- charge the most because their services are in demand. But in the winter, business comes to a standstill, especially in the northern regions hit with particularly harsh weather, and engaged couples have more room to negotiate for lower prices.
During the winter, the number of weddings throughout the country declines by 40% to 50% below that of peak season, Markel says. And of the roughly 2.2 million weddings that take place in the U.S. each year, only 5% occur in January, he says. That winter dip in demand means that couples marrying during the cooler months compete with fewer weddings for vendors.
Couples who are considering a January, February or March wedding still have time to book vendors, Markel says. "Couples have a major opportunity because the number of weddings that occurred in 2009 has been down by about 5%, and bookings for early 2010 are down as well," he says.
(December weddings aren't as cheap because banquet facilities give priority to recurring customers: conventions and companies planning holiday parties.)
Here are the four types of wedding vendors with whom you'll see some of the biggest winter savings.
Banquet facilities
The largest wedding-related expense is the banquet reception, which can cost more than $10,000, depending on the number of guests, location and menu, Markel says.Typically, banquet facilities charge a fixed price per person. But between January and March, the total cost often drops between 20% and 50%, Markel says. (The savings will be lower in states that have warm weather throughout the year, like parts of Florida and California.)
Couples who get married in the Meeting House Grand Ballroom, a banquet facility in Plymouth, Mich., will see big price differences. For weddings between January and March, couples will pay Friday prices for a Saturday wedding, says Randy Lorenz, the owner and general manager. For a party of 200 adults, that's a discount of $2,000; the banquet facility also waives its $300 ceremony fee.
However, not all wedding venues are cheaper during the winter than during the spring, summer or fall. Weddings at ski resorts are priciest in the winter, the venues' peak season, says Elise Enloe, the director of education for the Association of Bridal Consultants, a trade group.
Also, facilities that are popular with corporate holiday parties or conventions tend to be busiest during the winter, says LeLani Mandac, a senior catering manager at the Hilton Anaheim in California.
To save with a winter wedding at the Hilton Anaheim, couples will have to reserve the space no more than six months in advance, she says. Couples who choose an available weekend between conventions could receive an upgraded package at no extra cost, like a $70-per-person plated dinner (the facility's priciest package) at a cost of $65 per person, or an additional hour for their wedding celebration, which usually costs $250, for free.
In New York, winter is typically slow for caterers and other wedding vendors, says Andrea Correale, the president of Elegant Affairs, an off-premise catering and event-design company. As a result, couples marrying there have more room to negotiate meal prices during the cooler months. A caterer's price difference between a winter and summer wedding in New York is, on average, $50 per person, Correale says. Another option, of course, is to skip dinner. Lunch or brunch can save you 50%.
Flowers
Couples set on a particular color or type of flower should keep an open mind or prepare to drop a lot of cash.
The average cost of wedding flowers ranges from $2,000 to $3,000 in the U.S., says Baxter Phillip, the executive vice president at Phillip's Flowers & Gifts in Chicago. To save with a winter wedding, choose flowers that are in season, like irises, orchids, lilies and most roses, he says. Hydrangeas and peonies are the most expensive in January, and red and white roses are the priciest in the two weeks leading up to Valentine's Day and during the holiday season.
Also, find out where the flowers are coming from. Their starting point and shipping costs factor into the price. Seventy-five percent of wedding flowers (primarily roses) come from South America, whose summer season is our winter, Phillip says. Those flowers often are more affordable for winter weddings in the U.S. than, say, flowers imported from Holland, which shares our winter. Distance is also a factor.
Flowers that ship from South America to Florida will be cheaper than those shipped to California, says Angie Zimmerman, the owner of Heavenly Flowers & Events in El Dorado Hills, Calif.
Sticking to locally grown flowers that are in season is the least-expensive option.
For example, tulips are less expensive in California during the winter than they are in most of the rest of the U.S. because the state has many local tulip growers, Zimmerman says.
Photography and video
Fewer weddings mean fewer requests for photographers and videographers.
For weddings between December and March, Bill Louis, the owner of Stella View Studios in Union, N.J., says he discounts his custom photography packages, which start at $1,099, by 10% to 20%.
Jeff Sharpe, a co-owner of Sharpe Photographers in Roseville, Calif., where the starting price for photos is $2,200, says the company offers 10% to 25% discounts for weddings between January and March. During the same months, Eli Allen, the owner of Majestic Images in Philadelphia, who charges a starting price of $7,000 for photography and video combined, offers a 20% discount.
Transportation
Limos are at their most expensive during prom season and peak wedding season -- periods that winter weddings avoid. So expect to pay 10% to 20% less during the winter than you would in May or June, Markel says.
Santos Limousines in Avenel, N.J., lowers the price on its fleet of limos and luxury cars for most weekend weddings between the first Saturday after Thanksgiving and the end of March. For three and a half hours of use, a 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom rented during the winter will cost a couple $1,000, down from its peak price of $1,200; a Chrysler 300 stretch limo will go for $400, down from a high of $475; and a Cadillac Escalade ESV Series will cost $825, down from as much as $925.
From Sundays through Thursdays during the winter, Reston Limousine, based in Washington, D.C., offers a fourth hour free on any vehicle rental at least three hours.
This article was reported by AnnaMaria Andriotis for SmartMoney.com.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Wedding Traditions & Superstitions: 50 Wedding Facts & Trivia
Wedding Traditions & Superstitions: 50 Wedding Facts & Trivia
Everyone's got a know-it-all in the family: the uncle who spits out World Series stats at the drop of a hat, the sister who can list all the James Bond flicks in reverse chronological order, the reptile-enthusiast cousin. We're proud to be your wedding equivalent -- here are 50 wedding facts to ponder as you plan your big day:
2. The English believe a spider found in a wedding dress means good luck. Yikes!
3. In English tradition, Wednesday is considered the "best day" to marry, although Monday is for wealth and Tuesday is for health.
4. The groom carries the bride across the threshold to bravely protect her from evil spirits lurking below.
5. Saturday is the unluckiest wedding day, according to English folklore. Funny -- it's the most popular day of the week to marry!
6. Ancient Romans studied pig entrails to determine the luckiest time to marry.
7. Rain on your wedding day is actually considered good luck, according to Hindu tradition!
8. For good luck, Egyptian women pinch the bride on her wedding day. Ouch!
9. Middle Eastern brides paint henna on their hands and feet to protect themselves from the evil eye. Find out about Muslim wedding rituals.
10. Peas are thrown at Czech newlyweds instead of rice.
11. A Swedish bride puts a silver coin from her father and a gold coin from her mother in each shoe to ensure that she'll never do without. Learn more about Swedish wedding traditions.
12. A Finnish bride traditionally went door-to-door collecting gifts in a pillowcase, accompanied by an older married man who represented long marriage.
13. Moroccan women take a milk bath to purify themselves before their wedding ceremony. See more Moroccan wedding customs.
14. In Holland, a pine tree is planted outside the newlyweds' home as a symbol of fertility and luck.
16. About 70% of all brides sport the traditional diamond on the fourth finger of their left hand.
17. Priscilla Presley's engagement ring was a whopping 3 1/2-carat rock surrounded by a detachable row of smaller diamonds.
18. Diamonds set in gold or silver became popular as betrothal rings among wealthy Venetians toward the end of the fifteenth century.
19. In the symbolic language of jewels, a sapphire in a wedding ring means marital happiness.
20. A pearl engagement ring is said to be bad luck because its shape echoes that of a tear.
21. One of history's earliest engagement rings was given to Princess Mary, daughter of Henry VIII. She was two years old at the time.
22. Seventeen tons of gold are made into wedding rings each year in the United States!
23. Snake rings dotted with ruby eyes were popular wedding bands in Victorian England -- the coils winding into a circle symbolized eternity.
24. Aquamarine represents marital harmony and is said to ensure a long, happy marriage.
26. In Asia, wearing robes with embroidered cranes symbolizes fidelity for the length of a marriage.
27. Ancient Greeks and Romans thought the veil protected the bride from evil spirits. Brides have worn veils ever since.
28. On her wedding day, Grace Kelly wore a dress with a bodice made from beautiful 125-year-old lace.
29. Of course, Jackie Kennedy's bridesmaids were far from frumpy. She chose pink silk faille and red satin gowns created by African-American designer Ann Lowe (also the creator of Jackie's dress).
30. In Japan, white was always the color of choice for bridal ensembles -- long before Queen Victoria popularized it in the Western world.
31. Most expensive wedding ever? The marriage of Sheik Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum's son to Princess Salama in Dubai in May 1981. The price tag? $44 million.
32. In Korea, brides don bright hues of red and yellow to take their vows.
33. Brides carry or wear "something old" on their wedding day to symbolize continuity with the past.
34. In Denmark, brides and grooms traditionally cross-dressed to confuse evil spirits!
35. The "something blue" in a bridal ensemble symbolizes purity, fidelity, and love.
37. In South Africa, the parents of both bride and groom traditionally carried fire from their hearths to light a new fire in the newlyweds' hearth.
38. The tradition of a wedding cake comes from ancient Rome, where revelers broke a loaf of bread over a bride's head for fertility's sake.
39. The custom of tiered cakes emerged from a game where the bride and groom attempted to kiss over an ever-higher cake without knocking it over.
40. Queen Victoria's wedding cake weighed a whopping 300 pounds.
41. Legend says single women will dream of their future husbands if they sleep with a slice of groom's cake under their pillows.
42. An old wives' tale: If the younger of two sisters marries first, the older sister must dance barefoot at the wedding or risk never landing a husband.
44. The Roman goddess Juno rules over marriage, the hearth, and childbirth, hence the popularity of June weddings.
45. Princess Victoria established the tradition of playing Wagner's "Bridal Chorus" during her wedding processional in 1858.
46. The bride stands to the groom's left during a Christian ceremony, because in bygone days the groom needed his right hand free to fight off other suitors.
47. On average, 7,000 couples marry each day in the United States.
48. Valentine's Day and New Year's Eve are the two busiest "marriage" days in Las Vegas -- elopement central!
49. The Catholic tradition of "posting the banns" to announce a marriage originated as a way to ensure the bride and groom were not related.
50. Stag parties were first held by ancient Spartan soldiers, who kissed their bachelor days goodbye with a raucous party.
Everyone's got a know-it-all in the family: the uncle who spits out World Series stats at the drop of a hat, the sister who can list all the James Bond flicks in reverse chronological order, the reptile-enthusiast cousin. We're proud to be your wedding equivalent -- here are 50 wedding facts to ponder as you plan your big day:
Good Luck and Bad Luck
1. Hey, brides, tuck a sugar cube into your glove -- according to Greek culture, the sugar will sweeten your union.2. The English believe a spider found in a wedding dress means good luck. Yikes!
3. In English tradition, Wednesday is considered the "best day" to marry, although Monday is for wealth and Tuesday is for health.
4. The groom carries the bride across the threshold to bravely protect her from evil spirits lurking below.
5. Saturday is the unluckiest wedding day, according to English folklore. Funny -- it's the most popular day of the week to marry!
6. Ancient Romans studied pig entrails to determine the luckiest time to marry.
7. Rain on your wedding day is actually considered good luck, according to Hindu tradition!
8. For good luck, Egyptian women pinch the bride on her wedding day. Ouch!
9. Middle Eastern brides paint henna on their hands and feet to protect themselves from the evil eye. Find out about Muslim wedding rituals.
10. Peas are thrown at Czech newlyweds instead of rice.
11. A Swedish bride puts a silver coin from her father and a gold coin from her mother in each shoe to ensure that she'll never do without. Learn more about Swedish wedding traditions.
12. A Finnish bride traditionally went door-to-door collecting gifts in a pillowcase, accompanied by an older married man who represented long marriage.
13. Moroccan women take a milk bath to purify themselves before their wedding ceremony. See more Moroccan wedding customs.
14. In Holland, a pine tree is planted outside the newlyweds' home as a symbol of fertility and luck.
It's Got a Ring To It
15. Engagement and wedding rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it was once thought that a vein in that finger led directly to the heart.16. About 70% of all brides sport the traditional diamond on the fourth finger of their left hand.
17. Priscilla Presley's engagement ring was a whopping 3 1/2-carat rock surrounded by a detachable row of smaller diamonds.
18. Diamonds set in gold or silver became popular as betrothal rings among wealthy Venetians toward the end of the fifteenth century.
19. In the symbolic language of jewels, a sapphire in a wedding ring means marital happiness.
20. A pearl engagement ring is said to be bad luck because its shape echoes that of a tear.
21. One of history's earliest engagement rings was given to Princess Mary, daughter of Henry VIII. She was two years old at the time.
22. Seventeen tons of gold are made into wedding rings each year in the United States!
23. Snake rings dotted with ruby eyes were popular wedding bands in Victorian England -- the coils winding into a circle symbolized eternity.
24. Aquamarine represents marital harmony and is said to ensure a long, happy marriage.
Fashionable Lore
25. Queen Victoria started the Western world's white wedding dress trend in 1840 -- before then, brides simply wore their best dress.26. In Asia, wearing robes with embroidered cranes symbolizes fidelity for the length of a marriage.
27. Ancient Greeks and Romans thought the veil protected the bride from evil spirits. Brides have worn veils ever since.
28. On her wedding day, Grace Kelly wore a dress with a bodice made from beautiful 125-year-old lace.
29. Of course, Jackie Kennedy's bridesmaids were far from frumpy. She chose pink silk faille and red satin gowns created by African-American designer Ann Lowe (also the creator of Jackie's dress).
30. In Japan, white was always the color of choice for bridal ensembles -- long before Queen Victoria popularized it in the Western world.
31. Most expensive wedding ever? The marriage of Sheik Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum's son to Princess Salama in Dubai in May 1981. The price tag? $44 million.
32. In Korea, brides don bright hues of red and yellow to take their vows.
33. Brides carry or wear "something old" on their wedding day to symbolize continuity with the past.
34. In Denmark, brides and grooms traditionally cross-dressed to confuse evil spirits!
35. The "something blue" in a bridal ensemble symbolizes purity, fidelity, and love.
Food and Family
36. In Egypt, the bride's family traditionally does all the cooking for a week after the wedding, so the couple can…relax.37. In South Africa, the parents of both bride and groom traditionally carried fire from their hearths to light a new fire in the newlyweds' hearth.
38. The tradition of a wedding cake comes from ancient Rome, where revelers broke a loaf of bread over a bride's head for fertility's sake.
39. The custom of tiered cakes emerged from a game where the bride and groom attempted to kiss over an ever-higher cake without knocking it over.
40. Queen Victoria's wedding cake weighed a whopping 300 pounds.
41. Legend says single women will dream of their future husbands if they sleep with a slice of groom's cake under their pillows.
42. An old wives' tale: If the younger of two sisters marries first, the older sister must dance barefoot at the wedding or risk never landing a husband.
Show Off at a Cocktail Party
43. In many cultures around the world -- including Celtic, Hindu and Egyptian weddings -- the hands of a bride and groom are literally tied together to demonstrate the couple's commitment to each other and their new bond as a married couple (giving us the popular phrase "tying the knot").44. The Roman goddess Juno rules over marriage, the hearth, and childbirth, hence the popularity of June weddings.
45. Princess Victoria established the tradition of playing Wagner's "Bridal Chorus" during her wedding processional in 1858.
46. The bride stands to the groom's left during a Christian ceremony, because in bygone days the groom needed his right hand free to fight off other suitors.
47. On average, 7,000 couples marry each day in the United States.
48. Valentine's Day and New Year's Eve are the two busiest "marriage" days in Las Vegas -- elopement central!
49. The Catholic tradition of "posting the banns" to announce a marriage originated as a way to ensure the bride and groom were not related.
50. Stag parties were first held by ancient Spartan soldiers, who kissed their bachelor days goodbye with a raucous party.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Affordable Wedding Ideas 10 Tips to Save You Some Money
Every bride wants a beautiful wedding, but weddings can be expensive. There are little ways that you can cut costs and still have the beautiful wedding of your dreams.
Fifty dollars here or a hundred dollars there may not seem like much at the time, but these little amounts can soon add up.
The following ten affordable wedding ideas can easily be incorporated into your wedding plans to help you cut costs with very little effort.
Traditional engraved wedding invitations can be costly. The good news is using your computer and printer to make your own invitations is easy to do and will save you a lot of money. You can find a variety of quality paper at both online and locally at craft stores or office supply stores. Web based and local stores that sells scrapbooking supplies will also have a nice selection of paper. In fact many discount department stores have craft sections that offer card stock and stationary paper. There are many websites where you will find fancy fonts(many that are free) that can be downloaded to your computer. You can look around at the different websites that sell wedding invitations to get ideas for wording and layout and then experiment with inexpensive paper until you get the look you want.
Wedding programs are another item that you can print yourself to save money. As with the wedding invitations look around for ideas and then create your programs yourself.
Don’t buy shoes that are marketed as “bridal shoes”, instead purchase a nice pair of pumps or sandals that you know you will wear in the future. There is little reason to spend a lot of money on something that almost no one will see. Your comfort should be the only real concern with shoes.
Live bands are often the choice for music for the reception, but unless band members are your friends or relatives and offer to play for a reduced price, hiring a band is expensive. A more affordable alternative is to hire a DJ to take care of the music. An even less costly idea is to create a play list on your ipod and hook it up to speakers.
Wedding cakes are another expensive part of the wedding reception. One way to make the cake more affordable is by choosing a small wedding cake to decorate the table and use in pictures and then ordering sheet cakes in a quantity that will feed your guests. If the sheet cakes are made to match the small cake on the table and placed on plates in the kitchen, most guests will never even notice. Another idea is to order layer cakes in three different sizes and specify that they be frosted in your choice of icing with a smooth finish. The cakes can be placed on the table on pretty cake stands in different heights and fresh flowers can be used to pretty them up.
An open bar at the wedding reception is one of the most costly choices you can make. A more affordable option would be to limit the alcohol served to only beer and wine. Skipping the alcohol altogether is the most budget friendly option. You can instead offer your guest iced tea, water or coffee with the meal and offer punch on the cake table.
Elaborate reception table centerpieces are another big expense. While you don’t want bare tables, you can keep the centerpieces simple and save a good bit of money. A single rose or pretty candle floating in a glass bowl makes a simple, elegant and inexpensive centerpiece. Confetti in a color or colors that coordinate with the wedding decor can be sprinkled around it for additional color.
Affordable wedding photographers can sometimes be hard to find and might require thinking outside the box to accomplish. An idea that was recently shared with me was to inquire at a local camera store for a photographer. The person who did this found an outstanding photographer who was just beginning his business at a very good price. The wedding pictures were fabulous.
Many brides purchase disposable cameras for the guests to use to take pictures at the reception. One drawback of this is the cost of developing the pictures which may or may not be good pictures. A cost saving method is to encourage your friends and family to bring their own digital cameras to use instead. You will still get the benefit of the candid reception photos, but you will only need to spend the money to print those that you really like.
Napkins that are stamped with the wedding date and the names of the bride and groom are nice, but are also an unnecessary expense, after all they will only end up in the trash. To cut costs purchase napkins in a solid color that coordinate with the wedding colors.
I hope these affordable wedding ideas will help you to cut some costs for your wedding.
thanks to the following:
http://www.bestbudgetweddingideas.com/affordable-wedding-ideas-10-tips-to-save-you-some-money.html#more-233
Fifty dollars here or a hundred dollars there may not seem like much at the time, but these little amounts can soon add up.
The following ten affordable wedding ideas can easily be incorporated into your wedding plans to help you cut costs with very little effort.
Traditional engraved wedding invitations can be costly. The good news is using your computer and printer to make your own invitations is easy to do and will save you a lot of money. You can find a variety of quality paper at both online and locally at craft stores or office supply stores. Web based and local stores that sells scrapbooking supplies will also have a nice selection of paper. In fact many discount department stores have craft sections that offer card stock and stationary paper. There are many websites where you will find fancy fonts(many that are free) that can be downloaded to your computer. You can look around at the different websites that sell wedding invitations to get ideas for wording and layout and then experiment with inexpensive paper until you get the look you want.Wedding programs are another item that you can print yourself to save money. As with the wedding invitations look around for ideas and then create your programs yourself.Don’t buy shoes that are marketed as “bridal shoes”, instead purchase a nice pair of pumps or sandals that you know you will wear in the future. There is little reason to spend a lot of money on something that almost no one will see. Your comfort should be the only real concern with shoes. Live bands are often the choice for music for the reception, but unless band members are your friends or relatives and offer to play for a reduced price, hiring a band is expensive. A more affordable alternative is to hire a DJ to take care of the music. An even less costly idea is to create a play list on your ipod and hook it up to speakers.Wedding cakes are another expensive part of the wedding reception. One way to make the cake more affordable is by choosing a small wedding cake to decorate the table and use in pictures and then ordering sheet cakes in a quantity that will feed your guests. If the sheet cakes are made to match the small cake on the table and placed on plates in the kitchen, most guests will never even notice. Another idea is to order layer cakes in three different sizes and specify that they be frosted in your choice of icing with a smooth finish. The cakes can be placed on the table on pretty cake stands in different heights and fresh flowers can be used to pretty them up. An open bar at the wedding reception is one of the most costly choices you can make. A more affordable option would be to limit the alcohol served to only beer and wine. Skipping the alcohol altogether is the most budget friendly option. You can instead offer your guest iced tea, water or coffee with the meal and offer punch on the cake table. Elaborate reception table centerpieces are another big expense. While you don’t want bare tables, you can keep the centerpieces simple and save a good bit of money. A single rose or pretty candle floating in a glass bowl makes a simple, elegant and inexpensive centerpiece. Confetti in a color or colors that coordinate with the wedding decor can be sprinkled around it for additional color. Affordable wedding photographers can sometimes be hard to find and might require thinking outside the box to accomplish. An idea that was recently shared with me was to inquire at a local camera store for a photographer. The person who did this found an outstanding photographer who was just beginning his business at a very good price. The wedding pictures were fabulous.Many brides purchase disposable cameras for the guests to use to take pictures at the reception. One drawback of this is the cost of developing the pictures which may or may not be good pictures. A cost saving method is to encourage your friends and family to bring their own digital cameras to use instead. You will still get the benefit of the candid reception photos, but you will only need to spend the money to print those that you really like.Napkins that are stamped with the wedding date and the names of the bride and groom are nice, but are also an unnecessary expense, after all they will only end up in the trash. To cut costs purchase napkins in a solid color that coordinate with the wedding colors. I hope these affordable wedding ideas will help you to cut some costs for your wedding.
thanks to the following:
http://www.bestbudgetweddingideas.com/affordable-wedding-ideas-10-tips-to-save-you-some-money.html#more-233
Monday, April 25, 2011
Wedding Vows - Some examples to help you out
Looking for your wedding vows - those special words that will marry you? Here is an assortment of traditional and non-traditional, religious and secular wedding vows to get you started. If you are getting married in a religious setting, check with your officiant as she/he may have specific words that you cannot deviate from. Otherwise, feel free to add your own embellishments, loving words, funny promises (I promise to always make your favorite apple pie!) and inside jokes.
I, (Bride/Groom), take you (Groom/Bride), to be my (wife/husband), to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish; from this day forward until death do us part.
I, (name), take you, (name), to be my [opt: lawfully wedded] (husband/wife), my constant friend, my faithful partner and my love from this day forward. In the presence of God, our family and friends, I offer you my solemn vow to be your faithful partner in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, and in joy as well as in sorrow. I promise to love you unconditionally, to support you in your goals, to honor and respect you, to laugh with you and cry with you, and to cherish you for as long as we both shall live.
I (name), take you (name) to be my (husband/wife), my partner in life and my one true love. I will cherish our union and love you more each day than I did the day before. I will trust you and respect you, laugh with you and cry with you, loving you faithfully through good times and bad, regardless of the obstacles we may face together. I give you my hand, my heart, and my love, from this day forward for as long as we both shall live.
In the presence of God and these our friends I take thee to be my husband/wife, promising with Divine assistance to be unto thee a loving and faithful husband/wife so long as we both shall live.
I, (name), take you, (name), to be my friend, my lover, the (mother/father) of my children and my (husband/wife). I will be yours in times of plenty and in times of want, in times of sickness and in times of health, in times of joy and in times of sorrow, in times of failure and in times of triumph. I promise to cherish and respect you, to care and protect you, to comfort and encourage you, and stay with you, for all eternity.
I, [name], choose you [name] to be my [husband/wife], to respect you in your successes and in your failures, to care for you in sickness and in health, to nurture you, and to grow with you throughout the seasons of life.
I, (name), take you, (name), to be my partner, loving what I know of you, and trusting what I do not yet know. I eagerly anticipate the chance to grow together, getting to know the (man/woman) you will become, and falling in love a little more every day. I promise to love and cherish you through whatever life may bring us.
After both have said individual vows, they may wish to say something in unison such as:
Entreat me not to leave you, or to return from following after you, For where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. And where you die, I will die and there I will be buried. May the Lord do with me and more if anything but death parts you from me.
Content provided by About.com
I, (Bride/Groom), take you (Groom/Bride), to be my (wife/husband), to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish; from this day forward until death do us part.
I, (name), take you, (name), to be my [opt: lawfully wedded] (husband/wife), my constant friend, my faithful partner and my love from this day forward. In the presence of God, our family and friends, I offer you my solemn vow to be your faithful partner in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, and in joy as well as in sorrow. I promise to love you unconditionally, to support you in your goals, to honor and respect you, to laugh with you and cry with you, and to cherish you for as long as we both shall live.
I (name), take you (name) to be my (husband/wife), my partner in life and my one true love. I will cherish our union and love you more each day than I did the day before. I will trust you and respect you, laugh with you and cry with you, loving you faithfully through good times and bad, regardless of the obstacles we may face together. I give you my hand, my heart, and my love, from this day forward for as long as we both shall live.
In the presence of God and these our friends I take thee to be my husband/wife, promising with Divine assistance to be unto thee a loving and faithful husband/wife so long as we both shall live.
I, (name), take you, (name), to be my friend, my lover, the (mother/father) of my children and my (husband/wife). I will be yours in times of plenty and in times of want, in times of sickness and in times of health, in times of joy and in times of sorrow, in times of failure and in times of triumph. I promise to cherish and respect you, to care and protect you, to comfort and encourage you, and stay with you, for all eternity.
I, [name], choose you [name] to be my [husband/wife], to respect you in your successes and in your failures, to care for you in sickness and in health, to nurture you, and to grow with you throughout the seasons of life.
I, (name), take you, (name), to be my partner, loving what I know of you, and trusting what I do not yet know. I eagerly anticipate the chance to grow together, getting to know the (man/woman) you will become, and falling in love a little more every day. I promise to love and cherish you through whatever life may bring us.
After both have said individual vows, they may wish to say something in unison such as:
Entreat me not to leave you, or to return from following after you, For where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. And where you die, I will die and there I will be buried. May the Lord do with me and more if anything but death parts you from me.
Content provided by About.com
Thursday, March 17, 2011
NOW… ABOUT MSRP AND ETHICS…
NOW… ABOUT MSRP AND ETHICS…
•“MSRP” stands for Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price. A “line” is a particular company or designer from whom a bridal store purchases and carries in their store. All bridal stores, who have a good history of business ethics and associate with well known, reputable designers, are required to sell at MSRP and never below. We, the bridal stores, can choose to sell over MSRP, and many of us do, so that expenses, overhead and payrolls are covered. The formula varies, geographically, and the actual profit margin is quite minimal. Most bridal store owners open shops for the quality of life which being a small business owner brings; not for the “oodles and oodles” of money people seem to think we make. Here are some of our favorite questions regarding pricing:
•WHO WILL KNOW IF YOU SELL UNDER MSRP?
We love this question. Well in reality, probably no one, unless we get mystery shopped by the company – which is happening more and more frequently. Because a lot of bridal stores are struggling with the economic turmoil, there is a lot more price competition. One bridal store may have a gown priced at MSRP and a bride comes in with an email stating that the other bridal store in the next town will sell it for $200 less. Will you match it? Unfortunately, no. A bridal store which is caught selling under MSRP can have the line revoked and any orders placed, eliminated. We are proud of the lines we carry, and will not risk losing them. However, we are not in the business of going out of business… so, no we may not match a price on a custom ordered gown that is $200 below MSRP (that’s just crazy) but, we will work with you. Periodically, we will offer free veils, discounts on shoes, accessories, bridemaids, etc. when you purchase a gown through us. Now, we know this may be bad news for brides who are on a very very tight budget these days. And we are certainly not naive. We know all brides shop around. But we will tell you this, please, please, please question WHY and HOW a bridal store is able to offer you an ordered gown that is significantly less than what you were quoted by other stores. There is, unfortunately, a lot of trans-shipping and less than ethical dealings in this industry, which should be better regulated. But we can say this – we try our best to offer our customers the best gowns at best prices, and sure, we are not going to be able to satisfy everyone… but hey, we sleep well at night.
•I REALLY REALLY LOVE… (insert your favorite designer here)… BUT YOU DON’T CARRY IT.
WE LOVE YOUR STORE AND WANT TO BUY FROM YOU. CAN YOU GET IT FOR US?
Awww… we get this all the time and we love hearing it! Thanks to all you girls who just want to buy from us!! That says alot!
As much as we would LOVE to sell you a gown and be a part of your wedding, we can only order from the lines we carry. Some might call us crazy, and some might even say that is a poor business decision. Well, let us tell it as it is. Bridal stores spend A-L-O-T of money on the designers they carry. Believe it or not, we are required to order twice a year (Spring and Fall) and typically, there is a 8 – 12 piece minimum on orders. We won’t tell you how much that sets us back, but we’ll tell you that it is a boat load of money. So, lets break this down. If bridal stores invest all that money in select lines, we obviously want to sell those select lines. When a bridal store says “yes, we can get you a line that we don’t carry” they are doing several injustices. First, they may be doing what is called “trans-shipping” (mentioned in the previous question). Trans-shipping is when bridal store A, which does not carry the line, has a connection or an “in” with bridal store B which does carry the requested line. Bridal store A tells you yes, I can order you the gown even though I don’t carry it… because they don’t want to lose the sale. Bridal store A will then take your money and place the order NOT with the manufacturer directly, but rather with bridal store B. Now, that’s all fine and dandy, but it’s an enormous risk to you. What if the dress comes in wrong, what if it is damaged, what if the dress does not come in at all, what if, what if, what if… way too many what if’s for us. So, what could happen really? Well, bridal store A does not have the backing of the manufacturer to correct the problems, but instead, has to rely on bridal store B that ordered the gown, to resolve the issues… if they are even willing to do so because they have their own customers to take care of. Ugh… what a nightmare in the making.
The other injustice, which probably hits a little harder is the fact that once a bridal store agrees to order a gown from a line which they don’t carry, they are really hurting the other bridal shops that DID really invest their hard earned money into those lines. They are taking away the sale from a store that worked hard to get that particular line. We will not partake in such ethics. There are sooooo many lines out there. If someone comes in looking for a designer we don’t carry, we send them to the shop where we know they carry it. Plain and simple. It’s an integrity thing…
And once again, we thank all those lovely ladies who plead with us to get them that dress because they want to buy from us… we know you understand… We will be happy to sell you whatever we got in our store or help you find a store which carries the line you are looking for!
Compliments of a store in PA......
•“MSRP” stands for Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price. A “line” is a particular company or designer from whom a bridal store purchases and carries in their store. All bridal stores, who have a good history of business ethics and associate with well known, reputable designers, are required to sell at MSRP and never below. We, the bridal stores, can choose to sell over MSRP, and many of us do, so that expenses, overhead and payrolls are covered. The formula varies, geographically, and the actual profit margin is quite minimal. Most bridal store owners open shops for the quality of life which being a small business owner brings; not for the “oodles and oodles” of money people seem to think we make. Here are some of our favorite questions regarding pricing:
•WHO WILL KNOW IF YOU SELL UNDER MSRP?
We love this question. Well in reality, probably no one, unless we get mystery shopped by the company – which is happening more and more frequently. Because a lot of bridal stores are struggling with the economic turmoil, there is a lot more price competition. One bridal store may have a gown priced at MSRP and a bride comes in with an email stating that the other bridal store in the next town will sell it for $200 less. Will you match it? Unfortunately, no. A bridal store which is caught selling under MSRP can have the line revoked and any orders placed, eliminated. We are proud of the lines we carry, and will not risk losing them. However, we are not in the business of going out of business… so, no we may not match a price on a custom ordered gown that is $200 below MSRP (that’s just crazy) but, we will work with you. Periodically, we will offer free veils, discounts on shoes, accessories, bridemaids, etc. when you purchase a gown through us. Now, we know this may be bad news for brides who are on a very very tight budget these days. And we are certainly not naive. We know all brides shop around. But we will tell you this, please, please, please question WHY and HOW a bridal store is able to offer you an ordered gown that is significantly less than what you were quoted by other stores. There is, unfortunately, a lot of trans-shipping and less than ethical dealings in this industry, which should be better regulated. But we can say this – we try our best to offer our customers the best gowns at best prices, and sure, we are not going to be able to satisfy everyone… but hey, we sleep well at night.
•I REALLY REALLY LOVE… (insert your favorite designer here)… BUT YOU DON’T CARRY IT.
WE LOVE YOUR STORE AND WANT TO BUY FROM YOU. CAN YOU GET IT FOR US?
Awww… we get this all the time and we love hearing it! Thanks to all you girls who just want to buy from us!! That says alot!
As much as we would LOVE to sell you a gown and be a part of your wedding, we can only order from the lines we carry. Some might call us crazy, and some might even say that is a poor business decision. Well, let us tell it as it is. Bridal stores spend A-L-O-T of money on the designers they carry. Believe it or not, we are required to order twice a year (Spring and Fall) and typically, there is a 8 – 12 piece minimum on orders. We won’t tell you how much that sets us back, but we’ll tell you that it is a boat load of money. So, lets break this down. If bridal stores invest all that money in select lines, we obviously want to sell those select lines. When a bridal store says “yes, we can get you a line that we don’t carry” they are doing several injustices. First, they may be doing what is called “trans-shipping” (mentioned in the previous question). Trans-shipping is when bridal store A, which does not carry the line, has a connection or an “in” with bridal store B which does carry the requested line. Bridal store A tells you yes, I can order you the gown even though I don’t carry it… because they don’t want to lose the sale. Bridal store A will then take your money and place the order NOT with the manufacturer directly, but rather with bridal store B. Now, that’s all fine and dandy, but it’s an enormous risk to you. What if the dress comes in wrong, what if it is damaged, what if the dress does not come in at all, what if, what if, what if… way too many what if’s for us. So, what could happen really? Well, bridal store A does not have the backing of the manufacturer to correct the problems, but instead, has to rely on bridal store B that ordered the gown, to resolve the issues… if they are even willing to do so because they have their own customers to take care of. Ugh… what a nightmare in the making.
The other injustice, which probably hits a little harder is the fact that once a bridal store agrees to order a gown from a line which they don’t carry, they are really hurting the other bridal shops that DID really invest their hard earned money into those lines. They are taking away the sale from a store that worked hard to get that particular line. We will not partake in such ethics. There are sooooo many lines out there. If someone comes in looking for a designer we don’t carry, we send them to the shop where we know they carry it. Plain and simple. It’s an integrity thing…
And once again, we thank all those lovely ladies who plead with us to get them that dress because they want to buy from us… we know you understand… We will be happy to sell you whatever we got in our store or help you find a store which carries the line you are looking for!
Compliments of a store in PA......
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
What to look for in the right photographer.
Experience Level
Has this person photographed other weddings? Does he/she do this for a living or for fun? How many weddings has he/she done?
Photographic Style
Are the images that you are shown, what you would like to see? There are "buzz" words flying about everywhere about photojournalism, formal, classic candid, and so on. Do you want a mixture of black and white or only color photos?
Truth in Advertising
Is this the photographer that will be photographing your wedding or will they send in whomever is available. Don't be shocked, this happens more often than you can imagine. Be certain that you know which photographer is going to be there and that you see HIS/HER work and meet with that individually face to face.
Personality
Is the photographer that you meet someone that you can get along with? Is the "chemistry" there?
Appearance
Ask the photographer how he/she intends to dress. Is this person well groomed?
Price Range
Remember this will be the only way to look back on your big day. The last thing you want to do is shop by price, but is this person within your budget? If not, is he or she worth the price difference? Make sure you understand what everything costs, including discs, reprints and albums.
Delivery
How long does it take to get your proofs back, thank you cards, your finished album, your bridal portrait, etc.?
Offering
Whether it's a la carte or a package, do you understand what you are getting? Is there any room for changes and will it cost to do so? Sometimes the packages are fixed, sometimes they can be customized, in any case, ask. How much time will he/she spend? What if you need more time? Make sure that you know what's coming.
Contract
Do you understand the contract. Is it fair? Is everything spelled out? When it comes down going to court, only what is WRITTEN really counts, not what was promised. Make sure that you have no doubts before signing. Read it ALL.
What about deposits and payments? What does it say about cancellations and the photographer not being there? If the photographer protests, ask him why? This is one area NOT to take lightly. You could be disappointed for a long time.
References
A personal reference is always the best and people love to talk. Get a list of references from the photographer and check them out personally. A photographer who doesn't have references or is afraid to give them to you may not be the person that you need to hire.
Content from http://blissquarterlymagazine.com/
Has this person photographed other weddings? Does he/she do this for a living or for fun? How many weddings has he/she done?
Photographic Style
Are the images that you are shown, what you would like to see? There are "buzz" words flying about everywhere about photojournalism, formal, classic candid, and so on. Do you want a mixture of black and white or only color photos?
Truth in Advertising
Is this the photographer that will be photographing your wedding or will they send in whomever is available. Don't be shocked, this happens more often than you can imagine. Be certain that you know which photographer is going to be there and that you see HIS/HER work and meet with that individually face to face.
Personality
Is the photographer that you meet someone that you can get along with? Is the "chemistry" there?
Appearance
Ask the photographer how he/she intends to dress. Is this person well groomed?
Price Range
Remember this will be the only way to look back on your big day. The last thing you want to do is shop by price, but is this person within your budget? If not, is he or she worth the price difference? Make sure you understand what everything costs, including discs, reprints and albums.
Delivery
How long does it take to get your proofs back, thank you cards, your finished album, your bridal portrait, etc.?
Offering
Whether it's a la carte or a package, do you understand what you are getting? Is there any room for changes and will it cost to do so? Sometimes the packages are fixed, sometimes they can be customized, in any case, ask. How much time will he/she spend? What if you need more time? Make sure that you know what's coming.
Contract
Do you understand the contract. Is it fair? Is everything spelled out? When it comes down going to court, only what is WRITTEN really counts, not what was promised. Make sure that you have no doubts before signing. Read it ALL.
What about deposits and payments? What does it say about cancellations and the photographer not being there? If the photographer protests, ask him why? This is one area NOT to take lightly. You could be disappointed for a long time.
References
A personal reference is always the best and people love to talk. Get a list of references from the photographer and check them out personally. A photographer who doesn't have references or is afraid to give them to you may not be the person that you need to hire.
Content from http://blissquarterlymagazine.com/
Monday, March 14, 2011
Bridal Trends for 2011
Of course you want to keep up with what's hot, but caution on going "too trendy." Ever seen an 80s wedding photo? Enough said. LOL!
Ruffles and Frills
We're not talking about all over ruffles, although a ruffled wedding skirt can be very pretty. Instead, these are the special small details that help a dress come to life. You might look for a wedding dress with subtle ruffles on the sleeve. Or, an asymmetrical wedding dress with a feminine detail highlighting the back. These kinds of special details can help a gown feel more personal and lovely.
Backyard Weddings at Home
While getting married at home isn't necessarily cheaper, it feels more personal, allows you to have a more intimate affair, and doesn't feel ostentatious. The economy means not only that people want to spend less money, but also that they feel guilty when they do spend money. A backyard event not only helps to put your guests at ease, but also allows you to make more casual, less expensive choices elsewhere. For example, a barbeque picnic feels more appropriate at home than it would at a country club.
Homemade Wedding Favors
Though favors are an expense that's easy to eliminate, right now couples are especially grateful to guests who have incurred considerable expense to be a part of the celebration. The 2010 wedding trend is using homemade favors to express that thanks, and to send guests home with your love.
Birdcage Veils
These vintage-look veils combine a jeweled clip or feathered headpiece with netting that only covers the face. In the picture above, Drew Barrymore is wearing a birdcage veil to a recent movie premiere. Wearing one allows you to have some dramatic glamor and feel like a bride, but is a more fun look and less hassling than a long traditional veil.
Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses
For several years, brides have been selecting a bridesmaid dress designer and a fabric, then letting their bridesmaids choose the style that works best for their bodies. But the 2010 wedding trend takes idea further. Choose only a color, then let your bridesmaids find an off-the-rack dress of any designer that they like. Not only does this take some pressure off of you, but it also ensures that women are choosing a dress they like and they'll be likely to actually wear again. If you follow this trend, be sure to tell your bridesmaids how formal the dress should be – you don't want one bridesmaid wearing a casual sundress while another has on a beaded evening gown.
Wedding Dresses: Strapless
If you're saying to yourself, "This isn't a new 2010 wedding trend!" you're right. Strapless dresses have been extremely popular for several years now. And though more brides are opting for sleeves, straps, and other ways of covering the shoulders, strapless is going to continue to be the dominant style for the near future.
Wedding Dresses: Tulle Overlay
Spring 2011 collections are using a lot of tulle overlays. Placing a soft layer of tulle over a different fabric creates a softer look and tones down the luster of high-gloss satin and silk. Lots of designers used this fabric treatment this season.
Themed Weddings
The most notable trend is theme weddings. While color has been the dictator of “theme” in the past; now the couple expresses themselves through strong themes over color. A great example of this was revealed in the premier episode of “My Fair Wedding” with David Tutera. Who has ever heard of a Swamp theme prior to June 6, 2010?
Simply create a memory to reflect on through the times of celebration and be a support during times of trials. This is one day, the cornerstone for a lifetime together, “you and me against the world”, let the little things blend into the background and bind together the important ones. Let’s start a new trend toward forever.
Jewelry
To accent your gown, jewelry follows the same dramatic elegance. Classic pearl necklaces and crystal chokers are contrasted by antique floral pendants and metallic embellishments.
Quarterly Bliss - http://www.blissquarterlymagazine.com/
Ruffles and Frills
We're not talking about all over ruffles, although a ruffled wedding skirt can be very pretty. Instead, these are the special small details that help a dress come to life. You might look for a wedding dress with subtle ruffles on the sleeve. Or, an asymmetrical wedding dress with a feminine detail highlighting the back. These kinds of special details can help a gown feel more personal and lovely.
Backyard Weddings at Home
While getting married at home isn't necessarily cheaper, it feels more personal, allows you to have a more intimate affair, and doesn't feel ostentatious. The economy means not only that people want to spend less money, but also that they feel guilty when they do spend money. A backyard event not only helps to put your guests at ease, but also allows you to make more casual, less expensive choices elsewhere. For example, a barbeque picnic feels more appropriate at home than it would at a country club.
Homemade Wedding Favors
Though favors are an expense that's easy to eliminate, right now couples are especially grateful to guests who have incurred considerable expense to be a part of the celebration. The 2010 wedding trend is using homemade favors to express that thanks, and to send guests home with your love.
Birdcage Veils
These vintage-look veils combine a jeweled clip or feathered headpiece with netting that only covers the face. In the picture above, Drew Barrymore is wearing a birdcage veil to a recent movie premiere. Wearing one allows you to have some dramatic glamor and feel like a bride, but is a more fun look and less hassling than a long traditional veil.
Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses
For several years, brides have been selecting a bridesmaid dress designer and a fabric, then letting their bridesmaids choose the style that works best for their bodies. But the 2010 wedding trend takes idea further. Choose only a color, then let your bridesmaids find an off-the-rack dress of any designer that they like. Not only does this take some pressure off of you, but it also ensures that women are choosing a dress they like and they'll be likely to actually wear again. If you follow this trend, be sure to tell your bridesmaids how formal the dress should be – you don't want one bridesmaid wearing a casual sundress while another has on a beaded evening gown.
Wedding Dresses: Strapless
If you're saying to yourself, "This isn't a new 2010 wedding trend!" you're right. Strapless dresses have been extremely popular for several years now. And though more brides are opting for sleeves, straps, and other ways of covering the shoulders, strapless is going to continue to be the dominant style for the near future.
Wedding Dresses: Tulle Overlay
Spring 2011 collections are using a lot of tulle overlays. Placing a soft layer of tulle over a different fabric creates a softer look and tones down the luster of high-gloss satin and silk. Lots of designers used this fabric treatment this season.
Themed Weddings
The most notable trend is theme weddings. While color has been the dictator of “theme” in the past; now the couple expresses themselves through strong themes over color. A great example of this was revealed in the premier episode of “My Fair Wedding” with David Tutera. Who has ever heard of a Swamp theme prior to June 6, 2010?
Simply create a memory to reflect on through the times of celebration and be a support during times of trials. This is one day, the cornerstone for a lifetime together, “you and me against the world”, let the little things blend into the background and bind together the important ones. Let’s start a new trend toward forever.
Jewelry
To accent your gown, jewelry follows the same dramatic elegance. Classic pearl necklaces and crystal chokers are contrasted by antique floral pendants and metallic embellishments.
Quarterly Bliss - http://www.blissquarterlymagazine.com/
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Buying a Gown Online
Why NOT buy a wedding gown online?
It is all over the internet now to buy online. Well let me get right down to business.
You can work with real people and support your local community, or you can take a CHANCE and get some crazy chinese knock off that isn't real!
Bridal Shops are not out to just TAKE your MONEY.
We have been in this business for many years. We spend a great deal of time making decisions as to what we will and will not bring into our stores for our Brides.
We spend a great deal of MONEY traveling to our markets to make decisions as well as paying for the actual inventory that we have in our stores. (Yes ladies, the dresses that you are seeing in a Bridal Shop are not Free! On average a Bridal Salon of 2,000 - 4,000 square feet has about 250K+ in retail inventory)
Brick and Motar Bridal Shops are NOT here for you to use us as a place to TRY ON DRESSES and buy online.
If you are going to go to a Bridal Shop then please respect the time, energy and knowledge that each consultant has that is working with you.
We as Bridal Shop Owners spend a great deal of time and money training our staff as well to be top knotch!
Buying at a Bridal Shop you get the follwing:
1.One on one service for you and your party
2.Expert knowlege in trends, fashions, and details about that particular dress.
3.The fact that you have worked with someone personally and not with some IP address in main land china.
4.In many cases you will actually save money in the long run with the ad on services that you receive from the shop that you are working with (Such as discounts on bridesmaids, tuxedos, accessories, veils, headpieces, steaming and potentially storage)
5.Hopefully it is someone local so you can actually go and see them, they are invested in you as well as your community. They are providing jobs for your local economy.
These are just a few things. The internet is a crazy place, you don't know who are what you are dealing with!
It is all over the internet now to buy online. Well let me get right down to business.
You can work with real people and support your local community, or you can take a CHANCE and get some crazy chinese knock off that isn't real!
Bridal Shops are not out to just TAKE your MONEY.
We have been in this business for many years. We spend a great deal of time making decisions as to what we will and will not bring into our stores for our Brides.
We spend a great deal of MONEY traveling to our markets to make decisions as well as paying for the actual inventory that we have in our stores. (Yes ladies, the dresses that you are seeing in a Bridal Shop are not Free! On average a Bridal Salon of 2,000 - 4,000 square feet has about 250K+ in retail inventory)
Brick and Motar Bridal Shops are NOT here for you to use us as a place to TRY ON DRESSES and buy online.
If you are going to go to a Bridal Shop then please respect the time, energy and knowledge that each consultant has that is working with you.
We as Bridal Shop Owners spend a great deal of time and money training our staff as well to be top knotch!
Buying at a Bridal Shop you get the follwing:
1.One on one service for you and your party
2.Expert knowlege in trends, fashions, and details about that particular dress.
3.The fact that you have worked with someone personally and not with some IP address in main land china.
4.In many cases you will actually save money in the long run with the ad on services that you receive from the shop that you are working with (Such as discounts on bridesmaids, tuxedos, accessories, veils, headpieces, steaming and potentially storage)
5.Hopefully it is someone local so you can actually go and see them, they are invested in you as well as your community. They are providing jobs for your local economy.
These are just a few things. The internet is a crazy place, you don't know who are what you are dealing with!
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